King of the T: Makai King Is Already Building His Own Lane

Yesterday’s We Need to Know Wednesday was centered on Black excellence, and 10-year-old Makai King, known as the “King of the T,” gave us plenty to celebrate.

Makai’s love for the MBTA started when he was very young and has grown into much more than a childhood hobby. He knows the system, has met MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng, and already has ideas about how public transportation can be better.

One thing that stood out was his focus on accessibility. Makai said every station should be accessible so everyone, including people with disabilities, can use public transportation.

His reason was simple: “everybody should be included.”

Makai also shared that he hopes to become an MBTA Commuter Rail conductor or engineer one day.

His mother, Michelle King, talked about how she and Makai’s father support his passion while also making sure he stays safe as his public profile grows. She shared that following his interest in the MBTA has also helped build his confidence.

Her message to other parents was important. Pay attention to what your children love, learn about it with them, and help them grow it.

Michelle is also now an author. His book, “Makai on the Move,”encourages other young people to follow their passions and be themselves.

The conversation ended with Makai meeting James and John O’Bryant, two Black men from another generation who encouraged him to keep learning and keep going.

It was Black excellence across generations, from a 10-year-old already building his own story to two men working to preserve the story that came before them.

That is the kind of story we need to tell more often.

WATCH OUR CONVERSATION WITH MAKAI HERE!